Montgomery Bell State Park Campground provides opportunities for equestrians and families within 60 miles of Pleasant View, Tennessee. The park operates year-round with full hookup sites featuring water, electric, and sewer connections. Some campsites border creeks while others offer more seclusion for tent campers. The park maintains multiple bathroom facilities including shower houses and a laundry area.
What to do
Explore historical sites: Montgomery Bell State Park contains significant historical landmarks including a waterfall and an old church. According to Faith S., "There is a beautiful waterfall and an adorable old church" making it ideal for visitors interested in local history.
Wade in creek waters: During warmer months, families can enjoy cooling off in the shallow creek waters running through Montgomery Bell State Park. Tammy P. notes, "Children can wade in the creek all day, while parents enjoy sitting outside under all the shade trees."
Attend bluegrass events: Dad's Bluegrass Campground in nearby Franklin, Kentucky offers musical entertainment options. While Charlie M. mentioned, "No Bluegrass when we were there in the spring," the campground regularly hosts music events during peak season.
What campers like
Spacious sites for gatherings: Montgomery Bell State Park Campground features designated areas for larger groups. According to Stæven F., "With a great pavilion, Vb court, ball diamond, and playground, the far side of the camp is perfect for families, groups, and events. Our fave sites are 1-8, with #1+2 right next to the creek."
Equestrian-friendly options: Horse enthusiasts appreciate the accommodations at Loretta Lynn's Ranch where riders can bring their animals. Amelia R. confirms, "They have equestrian spots, RV spots, tent spots, and cabins for rent. Plus so much to do on the property!"
Well-maintained facilities: Clean, accessible bathrooms and shower houses are consistently mentioned as a plus at campgrounds near Pleasant View. Mike F. describes Dad's Bluegrass Campground as having "very clean restrooms" along with "a huge pavilion for events, nice pool, showers."
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Not all horse campgrounds near Pleasant View, Tennessee operate year-round. Loretta Lynn's Ranch has a limited season running "March 15 to October 31," requiring advance planning for equestrian campers.
Terrain challenges for RVs: The topography at some campgrounds creates challenges for larger vehicles. At Loretta Lynn's Ranch, one camper reported, "The slope made the sewage hook up a nightmare" and noted difficulties leveling their trailer on uneven ground.
Alcohol policies vary: Unlike many campgrounds, Loretta Lynn's Ranch prohibits alcohol on the premises, an important consideration for visitors planning their stay. This contrasts with other area campgrounds that permit alcohol consumption.
Tips for camping with families
Book creek-adjacent sites early: The most desirable family-friendly sites at Montgomery Bell often book quickly. As Stæven F. advises, "Check out the creekside campsites and book early if you want to accommodate your group OR get a spot. Sites are able to be booked 6 months ahead, so think ahead."
Consider crowd levels: Some campgrounds become congested during peak periods. Jody A. shares about Montgomery Bell: "When it's full, it's just TOO full. Too many people, dogs and kids that are too close together. If it's not a long weekend and they're not full, I would highly recommend the location."
Explore on-site activities: Dad's Bluegrass Campground offers family amenities beyond just camping spaces. Tara notes, "There is a beautiful pool, playground and basketball court for kids! The place is also pet friendly."
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: At Montgomery Bell, site placement affects accessibility and privacy. Lexi S. explains, "The tent only camping sites are spread out far enough that you don't feel like you are in one another's space. However, they are all together in the center of the RV camping loop."
Hookup placement issues: Check utility locations before setting up. At Dad's Bluegrass Campground, Jon P. found, "My site was slightly uphill where I had to park to reach the water hookup. The water hookup is very close to the ground and leaked for me. Made it very hard to connect the hose and pressure regulator."
Access considerations: Most horse campgrounds near Pleasant View, Tennessee offer pull-through sites to accommodate larger rigs with horse trailers. According to Charlie M., Dad's Bluegrass Campground provides "lots of RV manipulation help" from staff to assist with positioning larger vehicles.
